Energy effectiveness

The KURT vehicle platform is based on a patented modular design using high strength aluminium. This approach inherently provides strength, rigidity and shields the internal electronics and power components, like the LiFePO4 batteries from the external elements. The result is a cost-efficient and light weight platform that can easily transport a few times its own weight. The overall result is also that smaller batteries can be used, a reduced safety risk and most importantly a lower energy consumption than most other vehicles, be they electric or conventional.

The small city-logistics KURT vehicle with 4 motorwheels for example weights about 180 kg, yet can transport more than 200 kg. In the a comparison with 3 other electric vehicles, we simulated their performance and energy consumption using the mission profile. This profile includes numerous stops, straight stretches as well as short stretches on road with high inclines. Further assumptions are that the battery is never drained completely and that all vehicle have the same average drive-train efficiency of 80%. While such simulation cannot replace a real test, they provide a very good idea of how the different vehicle systems compare. We assume a driver weighing 80 km for all vehicles. The energy-effectiveness is measured as the energy needed to transport 1 kg of real payload over 1 km (besides the empty vehicle and its driver).

Parameter

City-KURT Logistics

Light electric van

4-wheel “scooter” with cargo box and 2 Propulsion wheels

Heavy tricycle with cargo compartments, pedal assisted

Empty weight (kg)

180

1445

335

86.0

Payload weight (excl. driver) (kg)

200

700

200

90.0

Achievable range in mission profile (km)

44.80

63.05

57.75

22.85

Energy-effectiveness (kJ/km/kg-payload)

0.95

1.31

1.27

1.18

The scores of the City-KURT are better in all cases because the payload vs. total weight is much better. This translates into a smaller battery for the same range, faster charging times and less energy costs. This also reduces the indirect pollution generated by producing the electricity, raw materials and the battery itself. As the City-KURT platform mostly uses aluminium and some steel, the majority of the components can be fully recycled.